A Maryland-based Catholic group released a list of priest names 'credibly accused' of sexual abuse of children dating back to 1950.

The Maryland Province Jesuits, a branch of the Catholic Church with over 16,000 members worldwide, disclosed the list of 13 priest names as part of a wider apology to victims and their families.

In a letter published on the group's website, Rev. Rob Hussey, the leader of the Maryland Order, wrote: 'We are deeply sorry for the harm we have caused to victims and their families.

We hope that this disclosure of names will contribute to reconciliation and healing.'

In the letter, Rev. Hussey said that the people 'demanded transparency and accountability' and provided a detailed list of the names of the priests accused who were investigated by Maryland Province.

Rev. Hussey aid that the people 'demanded transparency and accountability' and provided a detailed list of the names and accusations of 13 that were investigated by Maryland Province

Some of the priests included in the list have faced multiple accusations of sexual abuse with at least three cases stretching over three decades in the period from the 1950s to 1980s.

The letter adds that there are 'allegations that could not be fully investigated to determine credibility, but we are releasing the names because there is a reasonable possibility the alleged abuse occurred.'

Out of the 13 names listed, five are still alive today and live in supervised housing under 'a safety plan'.